The annual Dickens Christmas celebration returns to downtown Lebanon on Friday, Nov. 23. The Lebanon Main Street and Marion County Chamber of Commerce are once again hosting the celebration.

The event will kick off at 5:30 p.m. Friday with the lighting of the community Christmas tree.

The Dickens Christmas parade will take place at 7 p.m. with Santa Claus as the grand marshal. After the parade, Santa will be available at Joe's Deli on Main for pictures.

The event will also include the Chamber of Commerce Chili Cook-Off. Tickets will be sold at the Farmers National Bank Annex Building on Main Street. Purchase a bowl and spoon for $4 and vote for your favorite chili.

Music is also part of the celebration. Local elementary school students will sing songs on the courthouse steps, and carolers will be walking among the crowd throughout the event.

Visitors can take in a luminary display and take a ride in a horse-drawn buggy or on a trackless train. Free cider, hot chocolate and hot dogs will be available.

Downtown restaurants will offer a "Trail of Christmas Treats" for children, and local retailers will stay open later for Christmas shopping.